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Whether you’re looking for a part time gig at a local restaurant, or you’ve been working as a server for over a decade, going in for an interview is always a nerve-wracking process. Especially when you consider the competitive nature of restaurant jobs, your interview might end up feeling like a final exam. Remember that the employer will take the time to interview several other candidates.
This article will address 30 important server questions you may be asked in your interview, as well as provide corresponding sample answers you can use as a guide.
Key Takeaways:
Server candidates should highlight their relevant skills such as communication, teamwork, and customer service skills.
Interviewers should create server behavioral interview questions to assess how a candidate would react in specific situations.
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Remember that employers are looking for a candidate who checks all of their boxes, so your answers should be detailed, yet short and to the point.
Additionally, you should add personal examples that show quantified results whenever possible. With those tips in mind, here are sample answers you can use to produce and practice your own personalized responses:
What experience do you have working in restaurants? While in most cases you aren’t required to have server experience to land a job in a restaurant, it’s still important to answer the question in a way that shows your skills communicating with customers, handling food, and working in teams.
Of course, if you have worked as a server before, be sure to include a quantifiable number or years or months in your answer.
Example Answer:
“I’ve never worked in a restaurant before, but I did get promoted from a cashier to a deli clerk while I worked at Joe’s Grocery Store. Because of that, I have four years of experience handling food, and providing customer service. With my experience I know that I’m comfortable interacting with customers and performing in a fast-paced environment.”
How do you perform under pressure? Restaurants can be very fast-paced and high pressure environments, especially during the dinnertime rush.
Knowing that, you should prepare a few examples of times you performed your workplace tasks successfully during a stressful situation.
Example Answer:
“When I worked at Zucco’s Italian Restaurant we often had very intense dinner rushes, and because I worked there every weekend, I became very accustomed to working in a high-pressure and fast paced environment. There was even a time when two of my co-workers called out on a Friday night, but I was able to take on twice the tables I normally take without mixing up any orders.”
Can you tell me about your greatest strengths and weaknesses? In the context of working as a server, you should focus on strengths that revolve around having a friendly personality, composure under pressure, and any relevant experience.
Example Answer:
“I’d say my greatest strength would be my ten years of customer service experience. My experience allows me to effectively communicate with my team members and any customer under the sun. My greatest weakness would be my kindness. I’m always extremely kind and friendly to everyone I meet, regardless of how they treat me in return.”
Do you have experience working behind a bar or serving alcohol? Though you can still land a job as a server if you’re under 21, having experience working with alcohol can be a huge plus for pubs and other types of restaurants that provide it.
Example Answer:
“Although I’ve never worked behind a bar, the gas station I worked for did have a license to sell alcohol, so I do have experience selling it behind the counter. I’ve been formally trained on all the legal regulations and protocols that come with selling alcohol to customers.”
Have you ever made a custom desert for a patron? Again, the more relevant experience you have, the better. Either provide an example of how you made desserts at a previous restaurant, or give any other related experience you can think of.
Example Answer:
“Though I’ve never worked in a formal restaurant before, I made a whole plethora of desserts when I worked at Krispy Kones. There were over 24 flavors and 40 toppings for customers to choose from, so I got used to making all kinds of customized desserts.”
Can you handle working on your feet for long periods of time? Servers have to spend most of their shift on their feet, walking, standing, stooping, and carrying food or plates. For that reason, employers will want to ensure that the person they hire can handle being on their feet for a long period of time.
Example Answer:
“Prior to applying for this job, I actually worked at a barn from 6 am-1 pm on the weekdays. It was hard work, as I had to muck stalls, carry heavy hay bales, and wrangle animals. Over time my body really adapted to the hard work, and so I’m confident that I have the energy to power through even the busiest of shifts here.”
Do you consider yourself a team player? Typically, servers will have to work as a team to properly accommodate everyone in the restaurant. For that reason, employers will be looking for someone who can communicate well with others and follow directions.
Example Answer:
“Yes, absolutely. When I worked at Jimmy’s my fellow waitresses and I always made a game plan before starting a hectic shift. I’ve had experience working with 10 other servers on the same shift, and working by myself. While I can be self-reliant and perform all of my tasks by myself, I find that being able to communicate with other staff members makes shifts even more productive.”
What is your schedule like? What days and hours are you able to work? Regardless of whether or not you applied for a part time, or full time job, you should keep in mind that most restaurants rely on employees who can work late and on the weekends.
If you can, highlight your ability to cover these times, as that will give you the best chance of fulfilling the employer’s desired hours.
Example Answer:
“I’m usually pretty free, and can easily work mornings, evenings and weekends. I’m also known to take overtime when one of my co-workers needs time off.”
Tell me about a time you handled an angry customer. What did you do to resolve the situation? No matter how friendly you are, sometimes it’s impossible to avoid angry customers. Therefore, employers want to know that you can de-escalate situations, and make customers happy.
If you can, give an example of a time you managed a situation involving an angry customer well enough that they were no longer angry by the end of your interaction with them.
Example Answer:
“When I worked as a cashier at Clothing Inc., I remember a time when a woman approached me with several shirts that had holes in them. She claimed that the shirts were bought that way, but didn’t have a receipt. I contacted my manager and we compared the shirts to our sales records, in order to find a match. In the end, I was able to give her store credit, as that was company protocol, and she seemed satisfied with that outcome.”
How would you go about preparing or cleaning a table? Knowing how to clean and prepare tables is an important part of a server’s duties. Answering this question correctly will let the employer know that you are experienced, and aware of health and safety protocols.
Example Answer:
“First, I would remove any plates or garbage from the table, so they can be cleaned. Next, I would be sure to wipe any food or crumbs off into a rag, as to not get anything on the floor. Then, once the table is cleared I would clean the surface with sanitizer. Finally, after everything was dry, I would fix up any display items and ensure that there was silverware and napkins on the table.”
Why do you want to work for our restaurant? If you can use any personal touches, such as loving the restaurant you applied for or having childhood memories there, that can be a good move. Otherwise, don’t mention anything about money, and focus on your interest in customer service.
Example Answer:
“I just adore John’s Crab Shack, as my parents used to take me here every Sunday morning. Besides that though, I find it fulfilling to interact with a wide range of people on a daily basis.”
What is your favorite part of being a server? Similar to the last question, you should focus on your interest in customer service and food. If you can, share a story of a time you enjoyed your job as a server.
Example Answer:
“It has to be working with so many different people. At my last job I had an older man who came in for breakfast every morning. We chatted here and there, but I just enjoyed his presence and getting to know his quirks. By the time I left the job, I knew exactly what he was going to order before he’d even open his mouth.”
What do you know about food and overall workplace safety? Following workplace safety protocols, especially ones involving food, is a crucial part of any server’s job. State any important information you know about how to keep your workplace safe and clean.
Example Answer:
“I know that it’s so vitally important, and that I have a role to play in keeping everything clean. I’ve always taken bussing and sanitizing tables very seriously, understand the importance of handwashing as much as possible, and know that serving properly stored, cooked and heated food is a must.”
How would you describe an example of excellent service? As a server, one of your primary jobs is to provide an excellent experience for the patrons you’re serving. Describe how you would go above and beyond to provide this level of service.
Example Answer:
“I find that it’s important to ask as many questions as possible, and to accurately answer any of the questions a customer might ask me. For example, If a customer orders a custom burger, I would be sure to ask what meat they want, how they want it cooked, and inquire about any other toppings or sides. Additionally, whenever I return to the table, I’d also be sure to ask if anyone needs drink refills, more napkins, or replacement silverware when needed.”
Describe a time where you had to overcome a challenge in the workplace. Every job has its challenges, so it’s important for your potential employer to know that you can tackle anything that comes your way. In the context of being a server, you could talk about things like solving a customer service issue, navigating a short staffed shift, etc.
Example Answer:
“During spring break, when our diner received an influx of vacationing college students, two of my fellow servers fell ill and had to call out. To make up for the lack of staff, I covered two shifts, and made important preparations before the dinner rush. Despite the fact that we were working with less staff, I made sure to communicate effectively with my co-workers so we could split up tables evenly, and get food out to customers as quickly as possible.”
How would you describe your daily responsibilities as a server? Even if you’ve never worked as a server before, you should research their typical responsibilities before you go in for your interview. Your answer doesn’t have to drag on, but be sure to hit at least three to five key responsibilities.
Example Answer:
“Of course, I know that my top priority will always be to provide quality, fast service to customers, whether that entails seating them, providing them menus, refilling drinks, or giving them tips on what they should eat. Second, I know that keeping the tables and floors tidy is a key part of what makes any restaurant look great, and kept up to code.”
“Finally, I know that I will have to spend a considerable amount of time communicating with fellow servers, chefs, and customers, in order to guarantee that I perform my job correctly and effectively.”
Tell me about a time you failed. How did you react? You don’t have to lie and claim that you have no faults. Instead, don’t be afraid to own your mistakes, and highlight how you’ve used those mistakes to improve going forward.
Example Answer:
“During my first week working as a server at Jimmy's, I accidentally mixed up two orders. Luckily, this wasn’t a huge issue, but it did teach me to always write detailed notes on my notepad. I haven’t mixed up two orders since.”
Where do you see yourself in five years? Even if you don’t intend to work as a server long term, you shouldn’t be afraid to tell the employer that. Try to focus on the fact that you want to work hard and build valuable skills, so they will know that you’re motivated.
Example Answer:
“I just enrolled in college, and while I intend to go into HR, I’m still highly interested in this job. I know that working as a server will allow me to gain valuable communication and customer service skills, as well as give me more information about industry standards.”
What sets you apart from our other candidates? As mentioned previously, restaurant jobs are usually very competitive. With that in mind, you should do your best to highlight why you’re uniquely qualified for the position.
Example Answer:
“I’ve worked in restaurants on and off for nearly a decade, so I believe that my experience handling a variety of people and foods sets me apart from other candidates. For instance, I know how to pick up on subtle cues when a customer needs more water or napkins, and how to gracefully fix an incorrect meal.”
Do you have any questions for me? Always be prepared for this question, and go into your interview knowing at least one question you’d like to ask the hiring manager.
You can ask about things like start dates, training, the biggest challenges new servers face, or how your performance will be measured. Also, remember to provide a follow-up email after your interview.
Example Answer:
“Yes, actually. What do you think are the biggest challenges new servers face during their training?”
How do you handle multiple customer orders simultaneously while ensuring accuracy and timeliness in delivery?
Describe the steps you take to set up and prepare tables efficiently for service, including the arrangement of tableware, condiments, and any necessary additional items.
Explain the procedure you follow when handling a customer complaint or special request, ensuring their satisfaction while adhering to company policies and procedures.
How do you prioritize your tasks during peak hours to manage the flow of service effectively and ensure timely delivery of food and beverages?
Can you provide an example of a time when you had to upsell or suggest additional menu items to customers? How did you approach the situation, and what was the outcome?
Describe your knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices, including proper handling and storage of perishable items and maintaining cleanliness in the dining area.
How do you handle situations when a customer's order is incorrect or delayed due to factors beyond your control? How do you communicate with the customer and resolve the issue?
Explain the steps you take to ensure accurate billing and processing of customer payments, including your familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and any relevant cash handling procedures.
How do you manage challenging customers or difficult situations, such as handling complaints, managing unruly behavior, or resolving conflicts between customers?
Can you describe your knowledge and experience with menu items, ingredients, and any dietary restrictions or special considerations you must be aware of when serving customers?
As a Candidate:
Brush up on food and beverage knowledge. You should know different food and beverage terminology that is common to the industry. You should also be familiar with the restaurants menu so you can refer to it during your interview answers.
Highlight your experiences. You should come up with examples of your relevant experiences to help you so the interviewer that you are qualified. This will also help you highlight your skills as well.
Highlight communication skills. Communication is important when you are a server. Be sure to come up with examples of how you use your communication and active listening skills as a server.
As an Interviewer:
Create behavioral interview questions. Create a list of server behavioral interview questions to help get an understanding of how a candidate would react and handle specific situations.
Evaluate the candidates skills. Evaluate the skills that the candidate has and uses in their answers. Some important skills to be on the look out for are their customer service skills, multi-tasking skills, time management skills, communication skills, and teamwork skills.
Take notes. Take notes of the things the candidates says in the interview. This will help you evaluate them later on to determine if they got the job or not.